Kick-off for Alfie was with a 6am early start to catch a flight from Dublin to Heathrow to get to the Bees Superstore, to buy the full new 2024-2024kit, before meeting up with the Club’s Fan Engagement team and other mascots at 11.45, which we just about make. It’s a quick change and out with the old and in with the new (kit).
Alfie and the rest of the mascots were then escorted pitch side and into the dressing room and the press conference room for a tour, and then eventually they go to meet the players in the warm-up room to collect photographs/autographs, all while the poor parents were left behind in the Dugout Bar to avail of the refreshments .
The kids came back to join us for 30mins and to excitedly show off the loot from the goody bag they received on their travels, and them off we all went to meet Buzz and Buzzette pitch side before moving to warm up near the First Team, and to put their footballing skills on display with some mini exercises .
This was then followed by a nerve wrecking introduction to the entire stadium on the big screens.
All of this part of Alfie’s day was handled professionally and wonderfully by Stu Wakeford
And what an absolute gent, Stu is!
As time ticked closer to kick-off, Alfie and the gang were led to assemble in the tunnel to be paired with players.
The hope was obviously to be paired with your favourite player and in Alfie’s case it was now Brentford’s new signing, and Irish International player, Nathan Collins! Alfie loved watching Nathan play in the US tour matches.
Alfie had already made a special “Welcome to Brentford and The Irish Bees” picture present on his signing, and he was absolutely thrilled to be paired with him to run out on to the pitch!
Needless to say, Alfie was over the moon when Nathan told him that he had his picture hanging up in his locker.
Alfie could not get over the roar and noise of the fans as they came out of the tunnel and onto the pitch.
I’m sure it will be forever imprinted in his memory…… but his day was not over yet!!
A four goal match that ended with the Mighty Bees taking a point in a great match!
This was then followed by Alfie making a special presentation to Ben Mee (Meeeeeeeee!)!
Alfie gave Ben the Irish Brentford Supporters Club (we are the Irish Bees) Player of the Year Award for last season.
A day to remember for this young Irish Bee, and Dad!
The Irish Bees are affiliated to Bees United and always welcome new pats and ex-pat members
Fran will be delighted to share all the details! Ask Fran!
Fran is now busy arranging the very first Irish Bees watchparty
The host town will be Leixlip Co. Kildare, Nathan Collins home town!
Ask Fran!
How good was that!
